Benzema: I want to be the Real deal

11 May 2010 13:56:00

Karim Benzema has cooled talk he could join Manchester United by saying he remains "very happy" at Real Madrid and intends to stay in Spain.
The 22-year-old France forward moved to the Spanish capital from Lyon last summer for around 35 million euros.
He has failed to have the desired impact at the Bernabeu so far but reckons it is only a matter of time before he is back to his best.
"I am very happy at Real Madrid and the club trust me," he said.
"I'm not disappointed (with the season). It's a great experience to play for Real Madrid and next season will be much better.
"I wish I had been better, but this is the first of six seasons I will be here.
"The next year I hope to be much better."
United had been linked with a summer swoop for Benzema, but the player insists his only focus is on working hard and claiming a regular shirt for the club.
He added: "I know when I play well and when I play bad. It's been a very difficult year for me because it is the first time I'm out of my country, away from my family and my friends.
"The bottom line for me is work, work, work."
Madrid head into the final round of Primera Division fixtures this weekend a point behind arch rivals Barcelona.
Manuel Pellegrini's side must win at Malaga and hope Barca fail to beat Real Valladolid at the Nou Camp.
"They will be hard games," said Benzema. "If Barcelona win they are champions, but we have to focus on our match against Malaga and not think of Barcelona."